"So you go back to ground level and you have to look for what might carry you through. And you don't see the light at the end of the tunnel for a long, long time.
"Then out pops three plant varieties that show some hope. And here we are in 2017 with one showing the promise of growth and sustainability."
The experience confirmed his belief in the benefits of focusing on long-term strategy and investment to generate growth.
"I come from an intergenerational farming background. I believe in having a long-term vision. I don't measure things in single years, more like 10-year spans.
"In publically-listed companies, you get CEOs who come and go after three to five years and the strategic growth reflects that short-term planning."
He said the investment foresight of prior Zespri boards saw the company through Psa, even as it slashed costs in the short term.
"It was very satisfying to help take an industry that seemed to be on its deathbed to the success it is today."
Mr Cameron said he was drawn to companies with the same growth strategy, as well as a strong culture.
When he was approached about the Realty Group directorship he knew "instinctively" that it was a good fit.
"I respect the integrity and perspective of the key shareholders, and I respect and like the culture. But at the end of the day, it either resonates with you or it doesn't, and this did.
It will be his first foray into governance in the real estate sector, and a welcome opportunity to work again alongside good friend Richard Cashmore.
Mr Cashmore founded Realty Group, which trades under the Eves and Bayleys Real Estate brands.
Mr Cameron liked the mix of markets covered by the two brands and the strong network of relationships the company had built.
He said his role as an independent director would be to ensure the business' strategy "doesn't stray off the reservation".
"I'm there to make sure the business doesn't stub its toe, doesn't repeat missteps."
Mr Cameron lives with Gillian, his wife of 35 years, in Ohinepanea near Pukehina on the land his family have farmed since 1929.
He said he had travelled the world and "never had a problem getting on a plane and coming home".
"There's nowhere like the Bay of Plenty. The clean air, the environment we live in, the lakes, the beaches. We don't have the congestion issues of more populated countries."
The Bay was a dynamic part of New Zealand's economy, and he thought the region's public leaders should back it.
"I think we should not be afraid of paying forward [for infrastructure] if we want to keep our community vibrant and attractive."
